Islas Secas – Panama's Newest Vacation Jewel

Protected and uninhabited for hundreds of years, this ancient island paradise offers five-star service, six private casitas, and more…

Looking for privacy, relaxation and fun in a temperate, tropical island paradise? Panama's latest vacation jewel is a string of 16 virtually untouched islands – part of the new, comfortably-appointed eco-resort of Islas Secas, opening on December 18, 2004 — 12 miles off the Pacific coast of West Panama.

An hour and a half private plane flight from Panama City (provided by the resort), the islands offer a few thousand acres of lush, green, uninhabited terrain; extinct volcanoes; huge, old growth trees; exotically beautiful flowers; unique birds; other fascinating wildlife; and unparalleled opportunities to deep-sea fish, kayak, hike, and more. Privately owned and limited to only 12 people at a time to preserve the islands' eco-structures, this little bit of heaven is perfect for anyone who wants to escape the rush, noise, and heat of the city, hang onto a few comfortable amenities, enjoy outdoor activities, and see nature as it existed centuries ago. Plan on a good 3-4 day visit or longer, as the sights will amaze you. In fact, for this inaugural season, if you reserve 6 nights, you get the 7th night free.

Then be ready to step back in time — this place has never experienced the impact of man! The eco-systems remain intact and uninterrupted – a wilderness of beauty like you've never seen before. Many of the plants and flowers will astound you, including the wild orchids. One gigantic 500 year old Nispero tree stands so tall, with such a huge root system, that people appear tiny standing next to it. Gorgeous waterfalls abound. So do protected coves, jagged cliffs and warm, sandy beaches lined with coconut palm trees. (And there is no one on them!) The warm, shallow waters along the coastline are clear and awesomely transparent. On some stretches of beach, blankets of crabs (they don't bite) greet you in colors of yellow, orange, purple, red, neon, and iridescent.

The sea life — with its sea turtles, whales, and other colorful fish species – is nearly as rich as it was centuries ago, because few people have fished the coastal waters around these islands. Hawks soar overhead. Even the iguanas are friendly; they've seen few humans and don't seem too concerned about any of us. There are bizarre types of wildlife, too. Yet nothing on the island bites, nothing is predatory, and nothing is dangerous with the exception of one poisonous apple tree. There are almost no bugs during the dry season, which is the only time of year the resort is open. Even mammals (mice, rats, and so forth) are non-existent. The trade winds keep the temperature comfortable.

Sound too perfect? Well let's add more … When you arrive on the main island, you'll be shown your own secluded, double-occupancy, ocean-view casita (guest bungalow) – one of only six in the entire resort. When you're ready to eat, you'll be treated to delicious gourmet food prepared by Islas Secas' five-star chef. All of the water and much of the food is native to the islands — it's some of the freshest organic food you'll ever taste — chicken, fish, fruits, vegetables and other fresh, locally sourced, seasonal delights. If you feel like having a Margarita, that's available too. When you're ready for a little pampering, the solar-powered resort also features a spa for massages. But don't count on phones, television or radio – they're not provided. Remember, this is a place to "get away from it all".

Perfect for anyone who loves enjoying the out-of-doors in some comfort and style, Islas Secas offers trail hiking, bird watching, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, scuba-diving, whale watching, surfing, deep sea and spear fishing, boat excursions to the other islands, and more.

The name Islas Secas means "Dry Islands" in Spanish. While lush and green, their 16 foot tide range gives the impression of dry because the bays completely empty twice a day. The main island offers the creature comforts and overnight accommodations; the other islands are for exploring. Accessible by kayak or boat, the other islands remain protected eco-reserves for the native plants and wildlife that inhabit them.

The goal at Islas Secas is to put the islands into a foundation and preserve them in perpetuity. It's a fantasy place. The resort is utilizing only one percent of the land mass and the owner plans to keep it that way.

Islas Secas is open from December through April each year during the dry season. For travel information and reservations, visit Islassecas.com, email info@islassecas.com, fax 305-768-